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Sue Frause is an American writer and photographer. She's had a major crush on Canada ever since she visited British Columbia as a young girl. Even if your heart doesn't pitter patter over all things Canadian, read on. You'll find photos, travel tips, road notes and the latest news and thoughts about our friends north of the 49th parallel. Cool idea, eh?

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Manitoba one of Canada's top hemp producers

Unlike the United States, growing hemp in Canada is legal. It's been that way since 1998, and the province of Manitoba grows and distributes a large percentage of the crop. Hemp isn't to be confused with marijuana. Although both are part of the cannabis sativa plant, hemp is used for its fibre and seeds, while marijuana is cultivated for its flowers and leaves high in THC (that's the ingredient that makes pot smokers high!). Manitoba's Hemp Oil Canada Inc. (HOCI - pronounced hockey), exports hemp oil to more than 28 countries. Here are some of the uses of hemp:

Hemp Health: Touted for its insoluble fibre protein and essential omega 3 fatty acids, hemp seeds are often called a super food due to its many health promoting benefits. According to Manitoba Harvest's Mike Fata, the plant protein has all ten essential amino acids and is easily digested. It also benefits cardiovascular health, can lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce arthritic swelling. Manitoba Harvest's five products include hemp hearts (similar to pine nuts); cold-pressed hemp seed oil; hemp butter; hemp protein powder; and hemp bliss (non-dairy milk).

Hemp Gourmet: Manitoba chefs are embracing hemp. Hemp seeds are used as a coating on local picker fish cheeks served at the Misty Lake Lodge in Gimli and sprinkled on wood-fired pizzas at Whytewold Emporium. The Delta Winnipeg's Blaze Bistro makes a goat cheese, grilled mango, white balsamic and hemp seed appetizer while The Current at Inn at the Forks uses hemp seeds in its organic salad. And the cleverly named Fude features hemp-crusted fish dishes on its menu. Even canines are indulging in hemp -- Smack Pet Food makes dog treats and dog food with hemp.

Hemp Beauty: Hemp oil is used as a cure for eczema, stretch marks, scalp itch and a balance for cell development (it's a highly absorbent vitamin E carrier). Manitoba companies such as McCuaig Solutions and Zona Verde Cosmetics are making face lotions, body butters and hair care products from hemp. International brands Lush and Dr. Bronners use Manitoba hemp in its products. You can even make your own hemp products such as hemp oil, sea salt and lavender scrubs and hemp oil shampoos and conditioners.

Hemp Apparel: It's often described as "strong enough for a sailor and comfortable enough for a yogi." Michael Krahn's Fishlips Hemp Company is a retail store in Gimli, and sells hemp hoodies, hats, t-shirts, socks, running shoes, wallets, rope, twine and even paper. Another retail shop is Hempyrean in The Forks Market in Winnipeg. Owner Mike Carriere says hemp clothing is more durable and an organically friendly alternative to cotton. His store carries shirts, shorts, yoga clothes and pants in a rainbow of colors.